The trap of the inner victim filter
Psychologist Vera F. Birkenbihl taught that people often become victims not because of adverse circumstances, but because they have learned to see the world through the lens of negative, old beliefs. In the context of self-defense, this means:
The inner scanner: Your brain is constantly and unconsciously searching for evidence of what you already believe. If you are deeply convinced that “I am helpless” or “I cannot defend myself” (the “I am…” code), your mind will create situations and behaviors that confirm this helplessness.
The self-fulfilling prophecy: If you enter a potentially dangerous situation with the expectation of being attacked, your body sends out unconscious signals of insecurity. An opponent perceives these signals and is thereby encouraged in their intention to attack. Your belief has programmed reality.
Nug Mui as reprogramming of the mind
Nug Mui self-defense does not begin with the fist, but in the mind. It is the new filter for your mind. The training is the process of neural reprogramming, in which the old code (“I am a victim”) is replaced by a new one:
“I am capable”: Every technique you learn, every punch you practice, is new evidence that your brain stores. It changes the “I am…” sentence from passive to active.
Perception shapes the world: Training shifts your perception. You no longer see potential dangers as insurmountable walls, but as challenges for which you have solutions.
Conclusion: The first step to never becoming a victim again is a radical shift in consciousness. Accept that you are the one writing the script—both mentally and physically. Martial arts is the training plan for this new, strengthened mind.